Simple, Affordable Swaps for Everyday Life

Crunchy living doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. A few simple swaps can make home life feel cleaner, calmer, and more natural — even on a budget. Here are some highly recommended, mom-approved essentials to get you started.

**This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Hydration & On-the-Go Essentials

Insulated Drink Tumblers

A stainless-steel tumbler is one of the most recommended mom essentials for staying hydrated. It keeps drinks warm or cold for hours and helps reduce plastic waste. The Owala bottles get the job done and look great, especially for those looking for neutral tones.

Affiliate links: Owala FreeSip Sway - Stainless Steel - 40-oz. - Tan (Lightly Toasted) https://amzn.to/4p6Se6h

Owala FreeSip Tumbler Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Built-in Straw and Side Handle https://amzn.to/3XzylZO

Reusable Water & Kids’ Bottles

Leakproof stainless steel bottles are great for kids, car rides, homeschool days, and busy mornings. While I love the look of the Owala Kid’s bottles it was not leak proof. After three months of cleaning up water puddles around the high-chair, I have circled back to the trusty Contigo.

Affiliate Link: Contigo Kids Stainless Steel Water Bottle https://amzn.to/3JX3VgX

Practical Kitchen Basics for Natural Living

GLASS STORAGE CONTAINERS

A super easy swap — lasts longer, looks cleaner, and won’t stain like plastic. Moms love these for leftovers, snacks, and fridge organization.

Affiliate Link: Glasslock 18-Piece Assorted Oven Safe Container Set https://amzn.to/4r1WDcC

Reusable Beeswax Wraps

Simple way to cut down on disposable plastic. These make lunch packing and fridge storage much easier.

Affiliate Link: Abeego, The Original Beeswax Food Storage Wrap - Set of Three https://amzn.to/4pfycqz

Non-Toxic Cast-Iron Skillet

Popular for clean cooking and durability. Ceramic and cast iron are both long-lasting, natural options moms recommend when swapping away from traditional nonstick. I love my Lodge Dutch Oven. The lid converts to a 10.25" skillet. As a mom with a small kitchen, I love when one kitchen tool is multipurpose! Affiliate Link Lodge 5 Quart Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven https://amzn.to/4o0DqoW

Laundry + Cleaning Essentials Simple

Wool Dryer Balls

A zero-toxin alternative to dryer sheets. They reduce drying time, soften clothes, and last for years. Affiliate Link: Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls https://amzn.to/4hYUZnU

Glass Cleaning Spray Bottle

Safer for babies, kids, and pets. Many moms like simple, naturally-scented or fragrance- free options.

Affiliate Link: Glass Spray Bottles with Silicone Sleeve Protection, 16 oz https://amzn.to/48e6aWt

Cozy Home + Self-Care Essentials

Diffuser + Essential Oils

A favorite swap for creating cozy scents without harsh artificial fragrances. Great for morning routines or bedtime. I love the simple yet powerful aroma of vanilla and sweet orange! Affiliate Link

InnoGear Oil Diffuser, 150ML Ceramic Diffuser: https://amzn.to/4oGoEEW Vanilla by Revive Essential Oils: https://amzn.to/3LIa2GA Sweet Orange Essential Oil by Revive Essential Oils: https://amzn.to/4oKvbP4

Cozy Blanket or Throw

Not crunchy-specific — but definitely mom-life essential. Soft, neutral throws make the home feel warm and relaxing. This chunky throw blanket has the added bonus of being organic cotton! Affiliate Link Chunky Cable Knit Throw Blanket Lightweight Olive Green 100% Organic Cotton Blanket https://amzn.to/4nVbeDW Cozy Home + Self-Care Essentials

Bamboo or Wood Kitchen Tools

A simple way to reduce microplastics in the kitchen. Wooden tools are durable, budget-friendly, and pretty. Just remember to give them some love with a layer of food grade mineral oil or beeswax every once in a while. Affiliate Link Organic Bamboo Cutting Board Set: https://amzn.to/4i1xbQp Wood Butter Cutting Board Wax: https://amzn.to/47Gv8h8

Baby + Toddler Essentials

Organic Cotton Muslin Baby Blanket

Great as blankets, stroller covers, or tummy-time mats. Minimalist, breathable, and very practical. Affiliate Link: mushie Muslin Baby Swaddle Blanket | 100% Organic Cotton https://amzn.to/49VXh5b

Wooden Toys

Durable and multi-sensory, wooden toys are a favorite for natural-minded families (and look beautiful in the play area). Our son absolutely loves his car ramp toy. A year later and he still plays with it frequently! This Noah’s Ark toy offers so many ways to play, imaginative, stacking, threading, all while looking beautiful! Affiliate Link Car Ramp Toys for One Year Old: https://amzn.to/43vq90h Joyreal Wooden Noah's Ark Toy for 1 Year Old: https://amzn.to/3LFZBn6

You don’t need to overhaul your whole home to lean natural — a few simple swaps make a noticeable difference. Choose what fits your budget, your family, and your values... and build from there. This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.